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POLYGLYCERYL-6 POLYHYDROXYSTEARATE.

Valuable / SURFACTANT - EMULSIFYING

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is a versatile, plant-derived emulsifier critical for creating stable and aesthetically pleasing skincare formulations. It also offers significant skin-conditioning benefits, enhancing hydration and supporting the skin's natural barrier. This ingredient is well-tolerated and suitable for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive skin.

Summary

Emulsifying Emollient Texture Enhancer Skin-conditioning Film-former Barrier Support

Science

Mechanism of Action

This ingredient functions by bridging the gap between oil and water phases in cosmetic formulations, acting as a natural emulsifier. Its molecular structure, featuring hydrophilic polyglycerol chains and a lipophilic hydroxystearic acid component, effectively reduces interfacial tension, leading to stable emulsions. Beyond its primary role in texture and stability, it conditions the skin by moisturizing, softening, and forming a protective film, thereby enhancing active ingredient penetration and preventing moisture loss to support barrier function.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 2–6%
Optimal

5%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 3 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Recommended for use between 2-6%, this emulsifier can be integrated into either the water or oil phase and is compatible with both natural and synthetic thickeners. It is cold-processable, allowing for diverse textures from ultra-fluid to thick without the need for co-emulsifiers. It demonstrates good tolerance to electrolytes, specifically up to 2% NaCl, with salts (1-2% NaCl and/or MgSO4) often recommended for enhanced emulsion stabilization. Stability can be compromised by water and high temperatures, especially in the presence of strong alkaline substances, which may induce partial hydrolysis of fatty acids. Careful selection of emollients is crucial to prevent stability issues.

Synergies

  • Natural thickeners
  • Synthetic thickeners
  • Salts (e.g., NaCl, MgSO4 for emulsion stabilization)

Conflicts

  • High temperatures (especially with water)
  • Strong alkaline substances (enhanced instability)
  • Strong acids (potential for partial hydrolysis)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed the polyglyceryl fatty acid ester family, including Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate, safe for cosmetic use when formulated to be non-irritating. It exhibits low allergenicity and is widely recognized as suitable for sensitive skin. SkinSAFE has categorized this ingredient as free from a comprehensive list of common irritants and allergens, including parabens, fragrances, lanolin, coconut, gluten, soy, propylene glycol, and dyes, indicating a very favorable safety profile.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Polyglyceryl-6 Polyhydroxystearate is a valuable, gentle emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent that enhances formulation stability and skin comfort across diverse product categories.

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